A RUNNER has personally thanked two Chester volunteers who saved his life after he had a heart attack during this year’s Christleton 5k road race.

Michael Charman, 61, from Hale Village in Widnes, was just 100 yards from completing the run when he suddenly collapsed.

A nurse and doctor were first onto the scene and immediately began to try and resuscitate Michael.

St John Ambulance volunteers Nick Lowe and Chris Ashbrook were next to assist and crucially used an automated external defibrillator (AED) to shock his heart.

Michael regained consciousness and then sat up and started talking to the team.

It has been a long road to recovery since the May race for the Runcorn-based Spectrum Striders club member but he is now fully active again and has returned to work.

Michael recently visited Nick and Chris to thank them and to help raise awareness of just how vital first aid is.

He said: “I feel I’m the luckiest man alive. I wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for the first aid I received.

“I should like to thank the St John Ambulance volunteers, Nick and Chris, and everyone else who helped save my life.

“I am happy for my story to be told as I hope it will raise awareness of the importance of first aid which can save lives.”

His wife Stephanie added: “Michael was so lucky there was a competent team of people at the fun run who were able to help him.

“I can’t thank St John Ambulance and the race’s medical team enough for their expertise, determination and care which saved my husband’s life. My family and I are deeply grateful. ”

Dr Don Fitzroy-Smith, commander for St John Ambulance, said: “If Michael had not received first aid immediately I am sure he would have died.

“First aid can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved. I am so proud of all those St John volunteers who worked with the on-site medical team to promptly and effectively administer the first aid which saved Michael’s life.

We wish Michael all the best and are so glad he is able to return to his running.”